Quick Overview
- 1#1: Float - Float provides accurate cash flow forecasting and scenario planning integrated with Xero and QuickBooks.
- 2#2: Runway - Runway delivers collaborative financial modeling and cash flow forecasting for startups and scaling businesses.
- 3#3: Cash Flow Frog - Cash Flow Frog automates cash flow forecasting with scenario analysis and alerts for QuickBooks users.
- 4#4: Pulse - Pulse offers real-time cash flow forecasting and visibility integrated with Xero and QuickBooks.
- 5#5: Dryrun - Dryrun enables cash flow planning, forecasting, and invoicing management for QuickBooks.
- 6#6: Causal - Causal allows building interactive cash flow models and forecasts with no-code spreadsheets.
- 7#7: PlanGuru - PlanGuru provides budgeting, forecasting, and detailed cash flow analysis for finance professionals.
- 8#8: LivePlan - LivePlan creates business plans with integrated cash flow forecasting and performance dashboards.
- 9#9: Fathom - Fathom delivers automated financial reporting and cash flow forecasting insights for SMBs.
- 10#10: Spotlight Reporting - Spotlight Reporting automates financial reports and cash flow forecasts with scenario modeling.
We selected and ranked tools based on accuracy, scalability, user-friendliness, and value, prioritizing those with robust integrations, intuitive interfaces, and advanced features like scenario modeling and real-time alerts to ensure practicality for businesses of all sizes.
Comparison Table
Managing cash flow effectively is key for businesses, and cash flow forecasting software simplifies this process. Tools like Float, Runway, Cash Flow Frog, Pulse, Dryrun, and more provide distinct ways to predict, track, and optimize financial flows. This table details features, pricing, and usability to help readers find the right fit for their needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Float Float provides accurate cash flow forecasting and scenario planning integrated with Xero and QuickBooks. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 2 | Runway Runway delivers collaborative financial modeling and cash flow forecasting for startups and scaling businesses. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | Cash Flow Frog Cash Flow Frog automates cash flow forecasting with scenario analysis and alerts for QuickBooks users. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 4 | Pulse Pulse offers real-time cash flow forecasting and visibility integrated with Xero and QuickBooks. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 5 | Dryrun Dryrun enables cash flow planning, forecasting, and invoicing management for QuickBooks. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | Causal Causal allows building interactive cash flow models and forecasts with no-code spreadsheets. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | PlanGuru PlanGuru provides budgeting, forecasting, and detailed cash flow analysis for finance professionals. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.3/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | LivePlan LivePlan creates business plans with integrated cash flow forecasting and performance dashboards. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | Fathom Fathom delivers automated financial reporting and cash flow forecasting insights for SMBs. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | Spotlight Reporting Spotlight Reporting automates financial reports and cash flow forecasts with scenario modeling. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.9/10 |
Float provides accurate cash flow forecasting and scenario planning integrated with Xero and QuickBooks.
Runway delivers collaborative financial modeling and cash flow forecasting for startups and scaling businesses.
Cash Flow Frog automates cash flow forecasting with scenario analysis and alerts for QuickBooks users.
Pulse offers real-time cash flow forecasting and visibility integrated with Xero and QuickBooks.
Dryrun enables cash flow planning, forecasting, and invoicing management for QuickBooks.
Causal allows building interactive cash flow models and forecasts with no-code spreadsheets.
PlanGuru provides budgeting, forecasting, and detailed cash flow analysis for finance professionals.
LivePlan creates business plans with integrated cash flow forecasting and performance dashboards.
Fathom delivers automated financial reporting and cash flow forecasting insights for SMBs.
Spotlight Reporting automates financial reports and cash flow forecasts with scenario modeling.
Float
specializedFloat provides accurate cash flow forecasting and scenario planning integrated with Xero and QuickBooks.
Visual timeline scheduling that automatically generates dynamic cash flow forecasts based on booked projects and real accounting data
Float is a powerful resource management and financial forecasting platform tailored for agencies and project-based teams, enabling visual scheduling of work alongside accurate cash flow predictions. It integrates seamlessly with accounting tools like QuickBooks, Xero, and Harvest to pull in real-time financial data, allowing users to forecast revenue, expenses, and cash positions based on project pipelines and capacity. The tool excels in scenario planning, profitability tracking, and providing actionable insights to maintain healthy cash flow.
Pros
- Real-time cash flow forecasting synced directly with project schedules and accounting integrations
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface for capacity planning and scenario modeling
- Comprehensive reporting with profitability insights and what-if analysis
Cons
- Primarily optimized for project-based businesses like agencies, less ideal for product-led companies
- Pricing scales quickly with team size, which may be costly for larger organizations
- Advanced forecasting features require initial setup and data integration time
Best For
Creative agencies, consultancies, and professional services firms that need precise cash flow forecasting integrated with project management.
Pricing
Starts at $6/user/month (billed annually) for Freelance plan; Pro and Agency plans scale from $59/month for small teams up to enterprise custom pricing.
Runway
specializedRunway delivers collaborative financial modeling and cash flow forecasting for startups and scaling businesses.
AI-powered scenario planning that automatically generates and compares multiple cash flow forecasts based on adjustable assumptions
Runway is a cloud-based financial planning platform tailored for startups and scaling businesses, offering advanced cash flow forecasting, scenario modeling, and runway analysis. It integrates with accounting software like QuickBooks and Xero to pull real-time data, enabling users to build dynamic financial models without spreadsheets. The tool supports collaborative planning, headcount forecasting, and fundraising projections, providing actionable insights into cash burn and liquidity.
Pros
- Seamless integrations with accounting tools for accurate real-time data syncing
- Powerful multi-scenario modeling for what-if analysis and stress testing
- Collaborative features allowing team input and version control
Cons
- Higher pricing may deter very small startups or solopreneurs
- Steeper learning curve for non-finance users despite intuitive UI
- Limited advanced customization for highly complex enterprise needs
Best For
Scaling startups and SMBs needing collaborative, real-time cash flow forecasting integrated with operational planning.
Pricing
Starts at $75/user/month (billed annually) for Essential plan; higher tiers like Standard ($150/user/month) and Enterprise (custom).
Cash Flow Frog
specializedCash Flow Frog automates cash flow forecasting with scenario analysis and alerts for QuickBooks users.
Interactive 'what-if' scenario planner that lets users adjust variables like payment delays or new expenses to see instant forecast impacts
Cash Flow Frog is a user-friendly cash flow forecasting tool tailored for small businesses, integrating directly with accounting platforms like QuickBooks Online, Xero, and FreeAgent to pull in real-time invoice and bill data. It generates visual forecasts up to 3 months ahead, allowing users to simulate scenarios, track payment timing, and receive alerts for potential cash shortages. The software emphasizes simplicity, helping owners optimize cash flow without needing financial expertise.
Pros
- Seamless integrations with major accounting tools
- Intuitive visual dashboards and scenario planning
- Proactive alerts for cash flow risks
Cons
- Limited support for very complex businesses or custom forecasts
- No native mobile app for on-the-go access
- Forecast accuracy depends heavily on data quality from integrations
Best For
Small business owners and freelancers seeking simple, visual cash flow forecasting integrated with their existing accounting software.
Pricing
Starts at $39/month (Solo plan) up to $99/month (Business plan), with annual discounts and a 14-day free trial.
Pulse
specializedPulse offers real-time cash flow forecasting and visibility integrated with Xero and QuickBooks.
Automated driver-based forecasting that pulls live data from bank feeds and invoices for precise, hands-off predictions.
Pulse is a specialized cash flow forecasting software that integrates directly with accounting platforms like Xero, QuickBooks, and FreeAgent to deliver real-time, automated cash flow predictions. It enables businesses to create scenario-based forecasts, track key cash drivers, and receive alerts for potential shortfalls. Designed for SMEs, it simplifies financial planning with intuitive dashboards and customizable reports, helping users make proactive decisions without manual spreadsheets.
Pros
- Seamless integrations with major accounting software for automated data syncing
- Real-time scenario planning and 'what-if' analysis tools
- Intuitive, visual dashboards that make forecasting accessible to non-finance users
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly for larger teams or advanced needs
- Limited native support for non-integrated accounting systems
- Reporting customization lacks depth compared to enterprise tools
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses using Xero or QuickBooks that need straightforward, automated cash flow forecasting without a dedicated finance team.
Pricing
Starts at $59/month (Starter plan for 1 user), up to $199/month (Enterprise) with annual discounts available.
Dryrun
specializedDryrun enables cash flow planning, forecasting, and invoicing management for QuickBooks.
Interactive cash flow calendar providing a daily view of projected balances and cash gaps
Dryrun is a cash flow forecasting tool designed for small to medium-sized businesses, integrating seamlessly with accounting software like QuickBooks, Xero, and FreshBooks to pull in real-time invoice, bill, and recurring revenue data. It generates visual forecasts, including a unique cash flow calendar that displays daily balances and highlights potential shortfalls. Users can create what-if scenarios to model changes in payments, expenses, or sales pipelines for proactive financial planning.
Pros
- Seamless integrations with major accounting platforms
- Intuitive visual cash flow calendar for quick insights
- Robust scenario planning for what-if analysis
Cons
- Limited advanced customization options
- Pricing scales quickly for larger teams
- Reporting features lack depth compared to enterprise tools
Best For
Small to medium businesses seeking simple, visual cash flow forecasting without complex setup.
Pricing
Starts at $49/month for Solo plan (1 user), $99/month for Team (up to 5 users), and custom Enterprise pricing; 14-day free trial available.
Causal
specializedCausal allows building interactive cash flow models and forecasts with no-code spreadsheets.
Visual causal graph that maps variable relationships for intuitive, error-free dynamic forecasting
Causal is a spreadsheet-free financial modeling platform designed for building dynamic cash flow forecasts, budgets, and dashboards with a visual interface. It allows users to connect live data from sources like Stripe, QuickBooks, and HubSpot, enabling real-time updates and scenario analysis without manual data entry. Teams can collaborate seamlessly on models that automatically adjust forecasts based on variables and assumptions.
Pros
- Visual drag-and-drop model builder simplifies complex cash flow forecasting
- Strong integrations with accounting and CRM tools for automated data syncing
- Robust scenario planning and what-if analysis for agile forecasting
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers may not suit very small teams or bootstrapped startups
- Less flexibility for highly custom or niche financial calculations compared to Excel
- Steep initial learning curve for users accustomed to traditional spreadsheets
Best For
Growing startups and finance teams needing collaborative, data-driven cash flow forecasting without spreadsheets.
Pricing
Free Starter plan; Pro at $99/user/month (billed annually); Enterprise custom pricing.
PlanGuru
specializedPlanGuru provides budgeting, forecasting, and detailed cash flow analysis for finance professionals.
21 customizable financial drivers (e.g., AR/AP aging, inventory turns) that enable precise, granular cash flow forecasting beyond standard templates
PlanGuru is a robust financial planning and analysis software designed for budgeting, forecasting, and modeling, with specialized tools for detailed cash flow projections including direct and indirect methods. It integrates seamlessly with accounting platforms like QuickBooks, Xero, and Excel to import historical data and generate rolling forecasts, scenario analyses, and what-if planning. Ideal for businesses needing granular control over financial drivers, it produces pro forma financial statements with a focus on cash flow accuracy and variance reporting.
Pros
- Comprehensive cash flow modeling with 21 proprietary financial drivers for high accuracy
- Strong integrations with QuickBooks, Xero, and Excel for seamless data import
- Advanced scenario planning and rolling forecasts for strategic financial insights
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to its powerful but complex interface
- Primarily a Windows desktop app, limiting accessibility on other platforms
- Pricing can escalate quickly for multi-user or advanced features
Best For
Accounting firms, financial consultants, and mid-sized businesses requiring detailed, driver-based cash flow forecasting and financial modeling.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month for solo users (Perfect Plan), $149/month for 3 users (Pro Plan), up to $299+/month for teams/enterprise with cloud hosting options.
LivePlan
specializedLivePlan creates business plans with integrated cash flow forecasting and performance dashboards.
Fully integrated financial model that automatically links and balances cash flow, P&L, and balance sheet forecasts in real-time
LivePlan is a comprehensive business planning platform that includes robust cash flow forecasting tools, allowing users to generate detailed projections linked to profit & loss and balance sheets. It integrates with QuickBooks, Xero, and other accounting software for real-time data import and automatic updates. The software offers scenario planning, interactive dashboards, and customizable reports to help businesses monitor and predict cash flow trends effectively.
Pros
- Seamless integrations with QuickBooks and Xero for automated data syncing
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface with pre-built templates
- Advanced scenario modeling for what-if cash flow analysis
Cons
- Higher cost for users needing only cash flow tools, not full business planning
- Limited advanced customization options for complex forecasts
- Reporting features can feel basic compared to specialized tools
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses seeking an all-in-one planning solution with reliable cash flow forecasting.
Pricing
Starts at $20/user/month (Standard, billed annually); Premium at $40/user/month; Enterprise custom pricing.
Fathom
specializedFathom delivers automated financial reporting and cash flow forecasting insights for SMBs.
Driver-based cash flow forecasting tied to real business metrics for accurate, customizable projections
Fathom is a comprehensive financial intelligence platform that integrates with accounting software like Xero and QuickBooks to deliver reporting, analytics, and forecasting tools. It specializes in cash flow forecasting through driver-based models, rolling forecasts, and scenario planning, helping businesses predict liquidity and plan ahead. With customizable dashboards and KPIs, it transforms raw financial data into actionable insights for better decision-making.
Pros
- Seamless integrations with major accounting platforms
- Intuitive dashboards and visualizations
- Robust scenario planning for cash flow forecasts
Cons
- Pricing scales per entity, which can get expensive for multi-entity businesses
- Forecasting features require some setup for advanced customization
- Less specialized in cash flow compared to dedicated tools like Float
Best For
SMBs and accounting advisors needing integrated reporting alongside reliable cash flow forecasting.
Pricing
Starts at $49/month per entity for reporting (billed annually), with Analytics at $89/month and Forecasting add-ons from $39/month.
Spotlight Reporting
specializedSpotlight Reporting automates financial reports and cash flow forecasts with scenario modeling.
Driver-based cash flow forecasting that lets users model scenarios tied directly to key business variables like sales pipelines and expenses
Spotlight Reporting is a cloud-based reporting and analytics platform that integrates with accounting software like Xero, QuickBooks, and MYOB to deliver automated financial reports and dashboards. It specializes in cash flow forecasting through driver-based modeling, scenario planning, and what-if analysis, helping businesses predict cash positions accurately. The tool emphasizes real-time insights and customizable KPIs, making it suitable for ongoing financial monitoring and decision-making.
Pros
- Seamless integrations with major accounting platforms for automated data syncing
- Robust scenario-based cash flow forecasting with what-if analysis
- Highly customizable dashboards and real-time reporting
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for very small businesses
- Initial setup and customization require some learning curve
- Forecasting depth may not match dedicated specialist tools
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses reliant on Xero or MYOB that need integrated reporting and reliable cash flow forecasting without building spreadsheets.
Pricing
Starts at around $59/month for Essentials plan (billed annually), with Professional ($99/month) and Enterprise (custom quote) tiers based on users and features.
Conclusion
This curated list of cash flow forecasting tools highlights the innovation in financial planning, with each solution tailored to distinct business needs. Leading the pack, Float excels in accuracy and integration with Xero and QuickBooks, making it a top pick for many. Runway and Cash Flow Frog follow, offering robust collaboration and automation with QuickBooks, ensuring there’s a strong alternative for startups and streamlined workflows alike.
Take the first step to better cash flow management by trying Float—the top-ranked tool—today, and discover how it can elevate your financial planning.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison